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Hotel del Coronado has a beachfront setting and history no other San Diego resort can match. I got married here, I stay here regularly, and I’ve watched this property evolve over 25 years through a $550 million renovation that transformed nearly every corner of the resort. It’s better now than it’s ever been.
But it’s also a complex property. Five neighborhoods, three booking systems, and nightly rates ranging from sometimes under $400 to over $6,000 mean the difference between an incredible stay and a disappointing one comes down to choosing the best room and arriving with the right expectations.
This guide covers both, along with what makes this resort worth it, what to know before you go, and how to access VIP perks when you book.
Quick Facts
My Hotel del Coronado knowledge is thanks to…
Clients booked in
Nights spent (Client + My Stays)
How to Book Hotel del Coronado (With Added Benefits)
My clients receive Crown Club perks that combine Virtuoso benefits with additional privileges available only through select agencies. These apply at the main resort and are further enhanced at Shore House and Beach Village. Directions for booking Shore House and Beach Village are provided later in this article.
Book Main Resort Virtuoso.com — I’ll add Crown Club upgrades after receiving your reservation. You’ll also receive a private pre-arrival guide covering parking, check-in logistics, and how to make the most of your VIP amenities.
*When searching rates on Virtuoso, do not input children ages 17 and under as they will be priced as adults. I’m notified when you book and will add them when I contact you about your reservation. You’ll get an email confirmation from Virtuoso first. After the hotel adds our Crown Club benefits, you’ll get another reconfirmation from Hilton.
1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
What I love
Good to Know
Also Featured in
When someone emails in to say that they’d like to stay on the beach in a nice, big resort with lots of amenities, Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton, is the only answer in San Diego. I will tell you everything you need to know before you check in.
Is Hotel del Coronado Worth the Money? An Insider’s Value Perspective
In most cases, yes. The value depends on your expectations and how you book. Having reviewed this resort over many years and hundreds of client stays, my honest take is that when someone wants to stay on the beach at a full-service resort with lots of amenities, The Del is the only answer in San Diego.
Why It Commands Premium Pricing
There are other luxury hotels in the area, but none sit directly on a beach this beautiful with this combination of pools, restaurants, spa, kids’ programming, and historic character under one roof. That’s why it commands premium pricing, and why demand for it is high.
What to Expect From the Service
I need to be direct about this because it’s the most common expectation mismatch I see: Hotel del Coronado is a four-star resort, not a five-star. The pricing can suggest otherwise, but going in with four-star service expectations will set you up for a much better stay.
That said, service has improved noticeably since the renovation, and I found it friendly and attentive during my most recent stays. The main resort can be inconsistent during peak seasons, when crowds are larger and requests such as early check-in are harder to accommodate. For a more elevated, private experience, Beach Village and Shore House come closer to five-star service.
My Bottom Line
I’ve lived in a Four Seasons, and I’m the first person to notice when something falls short at a luxury hotel. And I genuinely love staying in any section of the resort. There’s something about The Del, the history, the beach, the energy of the property, that keeps pulling people back. Many of my clients return multiple times a year, and I understand why.
If you want a beachfront vacation where you don’t have to leave the property, with history and charm layered in, The Del delivers. And because I’m in direct, daily contact with the resort team, I can help troubleshoot issues or make requests on your behalf during your stay, not just before it.
Who Gets the Most Value
- Families wanting an effortless beachfront vacation without needing to leave the property
- Couples looking for romance with historic charm
- Luxury travelers who want spacious, private accommodations (Shore House or Beach Village)
- History enthusiasts who want to experience one of California’s most storied properties
I also know this because we survey our clients after they stay. They share what they like and dislike about their rooms, dining, activities, service, and things to do all over San Diego.
Which Part of Hotel del Coronado Is Best for You?
Hotel del Coronado isn’t one building. It’s a sprawling beachfront campus with five distinct sections, each with a different feel, price point, and set of tradeoffs.
Choosing the right one is the single biggest decision you’ll make when booking, and it’s where most people get confused. Two of the five sections (Beach Village and Shore House) are technically separate properties with their own check-in and booking pages, which adds to the confusion.
Here’s how to think about it simply: The Victorian, The Cabanas, and The Views make up the main resort. Beach Village is the most private and luxurious option. Shore House is the newest, with a modern residential feel and full kitchens. All five share the same beach, but the hotel’s own booking system separates them, which can be confusing. I can help you navigate that.
The map below shows the full layout. From left to right:
Quick Tips for Choosing
If you’re still unsure after reading the sections below, just ask me. I know every room in every building extremely well, and I’m happy to help you narrow it down.
The Victorian: Stay in the Heart of History
This is the original 1888 building and the heart and soul of The Del. Staying here makes you feel most connected to the resort. You’ll be surrounded by stunning Queen Anne architecture, the grand lobby, and the famous Crown Room.
View from my 3rd floor The Victorian Oceanfront Balcony King.
I recently stayed in a renovated Oceanfront King with Balcony (photos above) and loved it. The renovation made a real difference: bathrooms are larger than before, soundproofing has improved, and the rooms feel fresh while preserving their historic character. Nice touches include daily bottled water, robes, a steamer instead of an iron, and the resort’s Ocean Mist bath amenities.
Best For
- History enthusiasts and architecture admirers who are okay with a historic structure’s charming quirks (like slightly uneven floors)
- Couples seeking a romantic, classic setting
- Guests who want to be attached to the main lobby and resort amenities
Pros & Cons of Staying in The Victorian
Pros: Rich historic ambiance, central location, beautifully restored interiors, easy access to main resort facilities.
Cons: Room sizes and layouts vary due to the historic architecture. Balconies are not standard and must be booked specifically. Soundproofing has improved with the renovation but isn’t perfect. I heard some hallway activity.
Room Types in The Victorian
All rooms feature elegant Victorian-inspired décor, walk-in showers, and modern amenities. King rooms can only sleep two people, plus a baby in a crib at most. Two queen rooms can sleep up to four people.
Bathtubs are only in ADA mobility rooms. All other rooms on the main resort are walk-in showers only.
Insider Tips
Most Popular Rooms Booked by My Clients
Victorian Oceanfront Balcony
It provides direct ocean views and a small balcony with two wicker chairs. I think this is the best room in the building.
Victorian No View—Caution
This room is only popular because it is the cheapest. I don’t recommend it because you can look at a parking lot or a service area. I will upgrade you out of this if available.
The Cabanas: Steps from the Action
The Cabanas section is where the energy is. Renovated several years ago, it blends coastal design with the convenience of being closest to the Main Pool and the beach. This is where I book most families because everything is right there. Select ground-floor rooms feature fire pits and terraces, popular with travelers who want outdoor space steps from the sand.
Best For
- Families or people with mobility concerns who want to minimize walking to the pool or beach
- Social travelers who enjoy being near the resort’s energy
Pros and Cons of Staying in The Cabanas
Pros: Closest to the beach and pool, modern rooms, social atmosphere, popular terrace fire pit options.
Cons: No suites, limited privacy on ground floors (Resort View), few connecting rooms, not ideal for guests seeking a quiet or secluded stay.
Room Types in The Cabanas
King rooms have sofa beds, and up to three people (four if your kids are young) can sleep in them. Two queen rooms can sleep up to four people. You can add a crib to either room type for free (no rollaways).
Insider Tips
Most Popular Rooms Booked by My Clients
Cabana Beachfront Terrace Fire Pit King or Two Queens
These open up to grass and the beach boardwalk, and now have Ocean Club access.
Cabana Resort View Terrace Fire Pit Two Queens
It’s in a central location at a good price point, with a large patio.
Cabana Oceanfront King or Two Queens
Best views from your balcony. In my experience, they book up quickly because there are only a handful of them.
The Views: Panoramic Vistas & Contemporary Calm
If you’ve read old Hotel del Coronado reviews of this building under its former name, Ocean Towers, forget everything you saw. The Views has been completely renovated and is an entirely different experience now. It offers some of the best ocean views in the main resort area, with clean coastal design, floor-to-ceiling windows, and private balconies perfect for Coronado’s sunsets.
The Views is set away from the busier areas of the resort, which makes it one of the quieter options on the main property. I’ve stayed in multiple room types here, including a recent oceanfront stay, and it’s become one of my favorite buildings to recommend.
I’m standing so you can see the ocean
The grassy area in front of the Beachside Terrrace with Fire Pit rooms.
King bed with sofa bed on the left.
I like the bathroom layout
The Views Resort View rooms with baloncies and some as Terrace with Fire Pit rooms.
A selfie from my The Views Oceanfront room balcony.
Best For
- Guests prioritizing panoramic ocean views
- Those who prefer a quieter part of the main resort
- Families needing connecting rooms (this building has the most options)
Pros & Cons of Staying in The Views
Pros: It’s the tallest building, so it has the best panoramic ocean views (especially Oceanfront rooms on upper floors), fully renovated contemporary rooms, the highest likelihood of connecting rooms, and is generally quieter than Cabanas.
Cons: A longer walk to the main lobby and Victorian building than the other main resort options. “Ocean View” rooms offer only partial views, so book Oceanfront if a full ocean view matters to you.
Room Types in The Views
All rooms feature modern coastal décor, floor-to-ceiling windows, and private balconies or terraces. Like the Cabanas, king rooms have sofa beds and can sleep up to three people. All rooms come with a king or two queen beds option. Suites have king bedrooms.
Insider Tips
Most Popular Rooms Booked by My Clients
The Views Ocean View
Consistently popular due to usually being able to have some ocean in your view at a better price point than Oceanfront or The Victorian.
The Views Oceanfront
Booked by those seeking the best possible views in the main resort.
The Views Beachside Terrace with Fire Pit
Chosen for a quieter fire pit experience. A landscaped berm separates the boardwalk from this section of rooms for privacy, limiting your ocean view when sitting on your terrace. You can still hear and feel it, though.
The Views (no view)
These are popular because they are the cheapest rooms at Hotel del Coronado. I’m mixed on them because they’re not well located and there’s no view (it can be dark and in high-traffic areas), but you do see a lot of ocean and beach as you go about your day. I will upgrade you from this to Resort View if availability permits.
Beach Village at The Del: San Diego’s Most Exclusive Beachfront Stay
Beach Village is a private, gated enclave within Hotel del Coronado that operates as its own LXR Hotels & Resorts property. It’s the most luxurious part of the resort, with residential-style cottages and villas, private pools, a dedicated concierge and check-in, and a quieter atmosphere while still having full access to the main resort.
- Beach Village at The Del
I stayed here over the incredibly busy holiday season and felt very removed from the crowds. See my full Beach Village at The Del review.
Best For
- Luxury travelers seeking the most exclusive Del experience
- Families needing multi-bedroom space with kitchens or kitchenettes
- Couples wanting privacy and ocean views
- Special occasions, celebrations, or longer beach vacations
Pros & Cons of Staying in Beach Village
Pros: Highest level of luxury and privacy, gated access, dedicated check-in and concierge, full kitchens or kitchenettes, multiple private pools, and true beachfront options. Ocean Club access.
Cons: The resort’s highest price point, slightly removed from the main resort hub, and no elevators in the front-row cottages (important for those with mobility needs or young children). No washer/dryers in the suites.
Room Types in Beach Village
Rooms sleep up to six guests, and suites sleep four or more. All include either a balcony or a terrace.
Insider Tips
Most Popular Rooms Booked by My Clients
Beachfront Fireside Junior Cottage
A ground-floor front-row small suite with a fire pit, pocket doors separating bedroom and living area, and a kitchenette—perfect for couples or small families.
Coastal View Villa Room
This is the most accessible and affordable Beach Village option for families of 4–6; it includes two queen beds and a sofa bed.
Ocean View Villa Loft
Great for multi-generational or friend group travel—features two king bedrooms across two levels, plus an outdoor soaking tub.
Shore House at The Del: Seaside Residences with Elevated Amenities
Opened in 2022, Shore House is the newest addition to Hotel del Coronado and operates as a separate LXR Hotels & Resorts property. It has a modern coastal feel that’s very different from the rest of the resort, with residential-style accommodations, many featuring full kitchens with washer/dryers.
Guests enjoy an exclusive ocean-view pool, indoor-outdoor social spaces, a bistro, and their own dedicated entrance, plus full access to the main resort’s amenities.
Best For
- Families or groups needing one- to three-bedroom residences
- Guests who prefer a more social pool environment than Beach Village
- Longer stays or travelers who want kitchens/kitchenettes
- Those who enjoy a boutique-style experience within a larger hotel
Pros & Cons of Staying in Shore House
Pros: Stylish design, many units with full kitchens with washer/dryers, exclusive pool and gathering spaces, quieter, private neighborhood feel, lower price point than Beach Village. A zero-entry pool is good for kids.
Cons: Higher price point than main resort, located at the southern end of the resort—slightly farther from the Victorian building and swimming beach (but it’s not far).
Room Types in Shore House
All accommodations include a terrace or balcony. Rooms do not have kitchens, while residences (1–3 bedrooms) do. Many of the villas feature both indoor and outdoor fireplaces.
I have a lot of thoughts on the various view types in my full Shore House at The Del review.
- No View / Partial Ocean View / Resort View / Bay View Rooms & Villas: May face the resort, Glorietta Bay, internal or external areas with limited view. Available as two queen rooms or 1–3 bedroom residences.
- Ocean View Rooms & Villas: Side or angled ocean views that may include parts of the resort; offered in both room and residence formats.
- Oceanfront Rooms & Villas: Prime positioning for full ocean views; available in studio and multi-bedroom residence configurations.
Insider Tips
Most Popular Rooms Booked by My Clients
Partial Ocean View or Ocean View Two Queen Rooms
Often priced similarly—or lower—than main resort rooms with comparable views.
Oceanfront Villas
Most expensive, but delivers the best full ocean views in the building.
Multi-Bedroom Villas
Booked by families or groups needing separate bedrooms, full kitchens, and dining areas.
Best Hotel del Coronado Rooms for Your Stay
Ultimately which room you choose depends on price which our VIP benefits help offset.
Ocean view rooms and suites are incredible. However, you will see plenty of ocean when walking about the resort, so don’t uncomfortably stretch your budget for the view.
If budget is not a concern, I would book…
These rooms work at a lower price point
Quick Guide by Traveler Type
- Families with young kids: The Cabanas for pool/beach access, or Beach Village and Shore House for multi-bedroom units with kitchens
- Larger families needing connecting rooms: The Views has the most options, followed by The Victorian
- Couples: Victorian Oceanfront Balcony for romance and history, or Beach Village for privacy
- Luxury seekers: Beach Village or Shore House
- Best ocean views on a budget: The Views Ocean View rooms
- Best direct beach access: Cabana Beachfront Terrace Fire Pit rooms
Hotel del Coronado Connecting and Larger Rooms for Families
The maximum occupancy for rooms at Hotel del Coronado is three people (king rooms) or four people (two queen rooms). If your family is larger, look to these options.
Beach Village rooms: The rooms at Beach Village have been renovated to accommodate families of six, featuring two queen beds and a queen sofa bed. They are also spacious at 550-600 square feet, plus balconies or terraces.
Connecting Rooms: The hotel now offers guaranteed connecting rooms for a fee of $20 per room when booked upfront, or $25 if added later. My guests are not charged this fee. Most connections pair a king to a two-queen room in the same view type. The best availability is in The Victorian and The Views; The Cabanas has very few connecting sets.
I highly recommend having us assist you with connecting rooms or calling in-house reservations (not Hilton Central Reservations) for help.
Suites: Book a one-bedroom suite if you prefer a fully separate bedroom from the living area. The Views offers gorgeous suites with king beds and sofa beds that sleep up to three adults or two adults and two kids. The Views suites can have rollaway beds, which are larger at 800 square feet.
Rollaway beds: $25/night fee
Cribs or Pack N Plays: Complimentary, and you can request one or the other.
Ocean Club Upgrade
The Ocean Club, housed in the historic Windsor Cottage, is an upscale, semi-inclusive lounge and dining experience available to select guests. I used it regularly during my last Beach Village stay and found it to be a nice retreat for a quiet breakfast, afternoon snacks, or just grabbing waters and sodas throughout the day. It’s also a good spot to sit with a laptop or have a drink at the bar.
📌 Offerings change frequently, so check the resort’s Ocean Club page for the current schedule.
Who Gets Complimentary Access
Ocean Club access for two people (extra kids and adults must pay the daily rate) is complimentary with:
- Cabana Beachfront Terrace Fire Pit Rooms
- Select Views Ocean View and Oceanfront Rooms
Beach Village guests may enter the Ocean Club but are charged à la carte for all meals (though you receive breakfast for two per bedroom with our benefits).
What’s Typically Included
Ocean Club offerings rotate often, but generally include:
- A daily breakfast buffet
- Afternoon refreshments such as snacks, light bites, or sweets
- Access to exclusive bar and lounge areas
- Seasonal extras like fire pits, s’mores, champagne toasts, or live music
- One sand chair and umbrella at Del Beach per registered guest
- All-day access to bottled water, soda, coffee
Some meals (like lunch or dinner) are à la carte and not included in the daily fee.
Daily Program Fee (If Not Included with Room)
- Adults (13+): $100–$200 per person, per day
- Children (5–12): $50–$100 per child, per day
- Children (0–4): Complimentary with paying adult
You must opt into Ocean Club for all dates of your stay.
FAQ: Is the Ocean Club Upgrade Worth It?
If it is within your budget, yes. it’s a very nice benefit. But most of my clients don’t add it because they already receive daily breakfast for two per bedroom at Veranda (where, honestly, the buffet is better) through our booking benefits. Don’t stretch for it.
The resort’s restaurants and nearby Coronado dining are also excellent, so you won’t feel like you’re missing out without it. If the all-day access to snacks, drinks, and a quiet lounge space appeals to you, it’s a worthwhile upgrade.
Resort Amenities & Things to Do at Hotel del Coronado
Plan to spend a decent amount of time at the resort because there is much to do. You’ll receive an event calendar in your room or at check-in, but you can also check it online before your stay.
The following are some of my favorite things to do with my family while staying at Hotel del Coronado.
Swimming Pools
The resort features several pools:
- Main Pool (Cabana Pool): This Olympic-sized, recently renovated pool is centrally located near The Cabanas and The Views, accessible to guests of Victorian, Cabanas, and Views. It can be lively. The pool features daybeds and cabanas for rent.
- Beach Village Pools: Several smaller, more exclusive pools are reserved for guests staying in the Beach Village enclave, including an adults-only jacuzzi and small pool.
- Shore House Pool: A stunning, dedicated ocean-view pool with cabanas and bar service exclusively for Shore House guests.
- Spa Pool: A small private, ocean-view vanishing-edge pool and terrace exclusively for guests receiving spa treatments.
The Cabana Pool is heated year-round to 82°F. Guests from all five neighborhoods receive complimentary access, along with lounge chairs and towels.
- Your room key is required for entry
- Historically, they’ve enforced a kids’ break policy encouraging short rests at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m. but I haven’t seen this lately.
- No lifeguard on duty
- Sun Deck restaurant provides poolside food and beverage service
Tip: Book Cabanas and Day Passes ASAP
Pool cabanas sell out quickly. Book them ASAP if you have a room reservation, even if your stay is months ahead. You can also book pool day passes if you are not staying at the resort through ResortPass. If you plan to invite outside guests to join you at the pool, they need a pool day pass.
Beach Experience
This is a primary reason why people book Hotel del Coronado.
Del Beach
Del Beach offers guests the ability to rent lounge chairs, cabanas, and cabanettes in a full-service area. The menu includes sandwiches, salads, snacks, and drinks (including adult beverages). It’s a lovely way to spend a beach day.
Coronado Central Beach is enormous, so if you choose a Del Beach rental, you won’t be able to see kids playing in the water from this area. However, they will set up smaller chairs and umbrellas at the water’s edge if you ask.
See also: Rentals for Residents and Hotel Guests at Del Beach
FAQ: Is a Beach Cabana Worth It?
Yes! Having food and drinks delivered to your luxe, comfy cabana is fantastic! However, this is a very wide beach. If you have young children who will want to play at the water’s edge, rent sand chairs and an umbrella instead and take them closer to the ocean. You can’t see the water’s edge from Del Beach.
S’mores and Beach Activities
- Activities: Enjoy beach yoga, fitness classes, surfing lessons (seasonal), and simply relaxing by the waves.
- S’mores & Bonfires: A signature Del experience! Reserve a private beach bonfire pit complete with s’mores kits for a memorable evening.
Tip: You may order additional food and drinks from Beach + Taco Shack or ENO for pickup and bring them to your fire pit.
Coronado Beach Tips & Alerts
Spa & Fitness
Spa & Salon at The Del: You can book a range of ocean-inspired treatments (massages, facials, body wraps) and salon services. There’s a small ocean-view vanishing-edge pool and terrace exclusively for spa guests as part of the lounging facilities.
Fitness Center: I love this fitness center. Don’t skip this even if you usually skip hotel gyms. It’s surprisingly well-equipped for the space: multiple Peloton bikes, ellipticals, stair climbers, TRX stations, kettlebells, medicine balls, free weights, mats, and foam rollers. Everything feels new. The view is of the Beach Village Oval Pool, and fitness classes like beach spin, yoga, and TRX are also available.
Insider Tip: Here’s an easy water refill station. They also have bottled water for fitness center users.
Shopping
The resort shops are better than you’d expect. Beach House is an excellent spot for gifts, from tote bags to Gray Malin prints and home scents. You’ll also find roller skates, clear skateboards, tandem boogie boards, homemade fudge, and pet accessories. Good for souvenirs or if you forgot to pack something (at resort pricing).
Ocean Explorers Club (Formerly Kidtopia)
The Del has a kids’ club, but hours vary. The Ocean Explorers Club offers supervised activities, crafts, and games focused on ocean education and conservation for children aged 5-12.
Spaces do sell out so this is one of the activities I tell clients to book in advance.
Seasonal Activities
During a typical summer, guests look forward to beach movies and more outdoor activities.
No San Diego hotel is more festive during the winter holidays than Hotel del Coronado. Locals and tourists enjoy its gorgeous Christmas tree, annual ornament tradition, and beachfront ice skating rink yearly.
Tip: Winter Activities Are on the Windsor Lawn
Some rooms around the resort overlook the bustling winter activities on the Windsor Lawn. Consider this before booking Cabana Resort View or Victorian Ocean View rooms, which may overlook the events.
The resort is busier in the common areas during this time of year, but it is a lot of fun. We always head down to enjoy the winter programming, and many people check in to the hotel to experience it.
See also: Things to Do at Hotel del Coronado During the Holidays
Other Activities
Rent bikes to explore Coronado Island, take a historical tour of the property, enjoy seasonal events like ice skating (winter) or the outdoor roller rink (summer), or simply stroll the beautiful grounds and beach boardwalk.
You can ride a bike across the island to the ferry terminal or down the Silver Strand and back (the latter is a great exercise option).
Take a short walk off the resort to Coronado Boathouse at Glorietta Marina for speedboat rentals, sailing, jet-skiing, and other fun options. Seaforth Boat Rentals is also right across the street.
Pet-Friendly Information
Hotel del Coronado is pet-friendly and welcomes furry companions. You’ll need to read the pet policy. Note that dogs aren’t allowed on the beach in front of the hotel. Take them to Dog Beach, 15 minutes or so north.
We book The Cabanas Beachfront Terrace Fire Pit and The Views Beachside Terrace Fire Pit rooms the most for clients bringing dogs. They like the direct backdoor access to the grass, skipping the elevator, and enclosed hallway walks.
Resort Dining
Since there is no room service at the main resort, plan to visit the restaurants or order online for pickup at most of them. Here’s what’s available and where I recommend eating.
Nobu Del Coronado
World-renowned Japanese cuisine with signature dishes like Black Miso Cod and Yellowtail Jalapeño, featuring indoor/outdoor oceanfront dining, a sushi bar, and a pagoda bar. You need to make reservations on OpenTable.
Veranda
During my last stay, I was particularly impressed by the overall quality of the food and service at Veranda. The breakfast buffet was similar to some I’ve had at Four Seasons, with warm dishes served in beautifully copper pans and thoughtful touches, such as a large selection of oatmeal toppings and multiple salsas (both bottled and fresh) for your eggs. And salmon you could tell was smoked in-house. I was offered a coffee to-go, a nice touch!
Our main resort guests get two breakfast buffets included per bedroom!
Serea Coastal Cuisine
Upscale, sustainable sea-to-table dining with ocean views, offering dinner nightly and weekend brunch. I recently had dinner in the back room, which is perfect for larger, multigenerational families who want a private space.
Sun Deck
This is the place to be for lunch by the beach. I love the energy on this huge outdoor deck with a bar, sofa seating, firepit tables, high tables, and regular tables. It’s just a great place to soak up the ambiance with a glass of wine and some coastal cuisine. I recommend the Sun Deck Bowl with tofu for a light lunch.
Babcock & Story Bar
This historic bar in The Victorian building has indoor/outdoor seating and features the original mahogany bar, cocktails, and small plates. Last week during my stay, I took my computer down to have a grilled cheese and tomato bisque. While it was delicious, my best memories of this bar are from my wedding after-party!
Beach & Taco Shack
This is an ultra-casual, toes-in-the-sand spot for tacos, bowls, and drinks right on the beach boardwalk. I can vouch for the Mai Tais.
ENO Market & Pizzeria
I love this grab-and-go spot, which offers a huge variety of curated snacks (some from Erewhon, no less), bottled water, bottles of wine, pastries, sandwiches, gourmet juices, candy—you name it. Yes, it’s resort pricing.
Across the walkway, there is a dedicated patio area where you can order a sit-down meal, including wood-fired pizza.
Sundaes
Popular spot for gourmet gelato and customizable hand-crafted paletas (Mexican popsicles) that you and the kids will love.
Shore House Bistro
Only Shore house guests can dine here. When you book through us, your included daily breakfast for two per bedroom is here. The breakfast is usually a buffet, but may be a la carte in the off-season.
Breezes at Beach Village
This is the seasonal pool bar and lounge that serves lunch fare.
Using the Hilton App to Manage Your Stay
To use the Hilton app, you’ll need a free Hilton Honors account. If your reservation doesn’t automatically appear, you can add it using your confirmation number—or ask the front desk to link it for you.
I recommend using the app. I still pick up physical keycards, but the digital key worked flawlessly (Beach Village doesn’t use digital key). The chat feature was hit-or-miss. Responses were slow for urgent questions.
Important: If you’ve booked through me, please don’t select your room in the app. Guest relations will have already assigned the best available option for your stay.
Before You Book: Quick Reminders
- It’s a busy resort. Non-guests visit to dine, shop, and take photos. Most people don’t mind, but expect activity in public areas.
- Book activities early. Dinner reservations, pool cabanas, fitness classes, and kids’ club spots sell out, especially in peak season. Don’t wait until you arrive.
- Plan for the pricing. Food, drinks, and services are luxury resort pricing. The location on one of America’s best beaches is why.
- Go in with the right expectations and you’ll have a fantastic stay. My clients consistently do.
Getting to Hotel del Coronado
Coronado is south of San Diego International Airport and Downtown San Diego. It should take about 15-20 minutes to reach the resort by car unless it’s rush hour.
If you’re taking Uber or Lyft, follow signs from baggage claim at the airport to the taxis or rideshare waiting area. Uber Black is licensed to pick you up curbside just outside baggage claim. Signage also points to rental car shuttle waiting areas.
During the summer, a shuttle on Coronado Island can take guests around the island and from the hotel to the ferry, which would otherwise be a 30-minute walk.
During the summer, a free shuttle runs around Coronado Island and connects the hotel to the ferry landing, which would otherwise be a 30-minute walk. This makes Hotel del Coronado one of the best places to stay without a car in San Diego. You can use Uber for short distances or rent a car by the day from Enterprise, a few blocks away.
This makes Hotel del Coronado one of the best places to stay without a car in San Diego. You can use Uber for short distances or supplement it by renting a car for the day. The nearest rental car outlet to Hotel del Coronado is Enterprise, a few blocks away.
Hotel del Coronado Reviews From Our Clients…
We’ve recently started collecting client reviews of their stays at popular San Diego hotels. Here are a few Hotel del Coronado reviews that we have permission to share. Please remember that they booked in with Virtuoso amenities, so they had some additional benefits. In all honesty, we have not had a negative review in I can’t remember how long.
The breakfast was amazing at the hotel, eating that seaside. We just love the charm and history of the hotel, and our upgraded room was amazing! We honestly can’t wait to come back. Thanks to La Jolla Mom, for hooking us up with an amazing rate and some amazing benefits. It made the stay so much more enjoyable! Can’t wait to book again.
The Hotel is SO beautiful, the crowds around Christmas were insane, it finally got lighter around Wed/Thursday. I’d keep that in mind if I was ever coming back. Room 4251 (The Cabanas Resort View) was where we ended up, and I’d just make sure to not have guests in that room in the future only because of the location, you look into a wall and then there is this open common area so people kept coming down our stairs thinking our room was an access point to the hotel. The rooms overlooking the ocean and firepits looked amazing, if I were to come again I’d splurge for two nights with that view and then likely head to other beach towns to see more of the area. You are really a pleasure to work with.
It was an amazing 50th birthday. The hotel was a spectacular venue due to its location on the beach and lovely newly renovated rooms. I will definitely stay there again. Having the Virtuoso benefits was priceless as we had amazing breakfast included each morning which ensured we started our day off right.
Loved having the complimentary breakfast at the main restaurant, we loved the room upgrade to a suite in the new Cabanas, the view was incredible and that new part of the hotel property was so quiet and spacious! Everything was really great, there were a lot of resort charges but I know that’s part of staying a hotel of that quality that’s also a historical site. I’m SO glad I booked through Katie, the complimentary room upgrade and breakfasts were very worth it. It was a very family friendly hotel too, and we appreciated how accommodating and welcoming the staff were.
Just walking around at night with all the holiday lights was awesome! I am SO happy I booked through Katie Dillon! It was so easy, didn’t cost any more than booking through the hotel and we had VIP perks, upgrades, and just felt so welcomed! Can’t wait to use your booking services again in the future!
How to Book Hotel del Coronado with VIP Benefits
You can check Hotel del Coronado prices on my Virtuoso page and compare them to Hilton.com. However, you will receive a better level of service and VIP status in addition to my San Diego vacation planning email series if you book with me.
Click on the tabs to explore booking instructions
Hotel del Coronado Virtuoso Benefits:
SALE: 3rd Night Free on select dates: The promotional rate appears as a 33% discount when booking a three-night stay. You must be logged into Virtuoso.com to view the Exclusive Sale pricing. Blackout dates apply. Book by February 19, 2026.
Sign in or create a free Virtuoso account to see the discounted rate! When booking on Virtuoso.com use the number of adults traveling to get the correct rates. Kids may otherwise be priced as adults. We will add them after we follow up to collect your arrival details. If you see multiple rates for the same room type, choose the lowest rate. Check the status of ocean swimming in front of Coronado Lifeguard Tower as it changes. This is the testing station in front of Hotel del Coronado.
Shore House at The Del Virtuoso Benefits:
- Guestroom: one-time $150 resort credit
- 1 Bedroom Villa/Cottage: one-time $250 resort credit
- 2 Bedroom Villa/Cottage: one-time $350 resort credit
- 3 Bedroom Villa/Cottage: one-time $450 resort credit
SALE: 3rd Night FREE on select dates! The sale price will be reflected as a 33% off discount as long as you stay three nights. Must be logged into Virtuoso.com to see the Exclusive Sale price there.
Beach Village at The Del Virtuoso Benefits:
- Guestroom: one-time $150 resort credit
- 1 Bedroom Villa/Cottage: one-time $250 resort credit
- 2 Bedroom Villa/Cottage: one-time $350 resort credit
- 3 Bedroom Villa/Cottage: one-time $450 resort credit
SALE: 3rd Night FREE on select dates! The sale price will be reflected as a 33% off discount as long as you stay three nights. Must be logged into Virtuoso.com to see the Exclusive Sale price there. Blackout dates apply. If you see a lower rate than Virtuoso on Hilton.com please request Hilton for Luxury rates.
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Hilton
If you are eligible for AAA, Military, or Hilton Honors or sale rates that you are more comfortable with, you can book all three sections of the resort through their pages on Hilton.com.
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I update this Hotel del Coronado review regularly, so bookmark this page if your stay falls in the future. You are always welcome to email me with questions.
FAQs About Staying at Hotel del Coronado
I’m asked many questions about this popular resort, so I have answered the most frequently asked questions here to help you plan your stay.
Is Hotel del Coronado a Hilton Hotel?
Yes. Hotel del Coronado is part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, a collection of independent four- and five-star properties worldwide. You can earn and redeem Hilton Honors points when staying at the main resort, Beach Village at The Del, and Shore House at The Del. Virtuoso guests also earn Hilton Honors points.
Which is the Hotel del Coronado haunted room?
If you’re looking to request or avoid the Hotel del Coronado haunted room where Kate Morgan stayed in 1892, it’s room 33036. The hotel doesn’t mention the room number much publicly, but we were told the number by a bellman once and have seen other sources confirm this.
Kate Morgan died at the hotel under mysterious circumstances (believed to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound, but there is some controversy around this). She is said to haunt the hotel to this day.
What does the Resort Fee cover?
Hotel del Coronado, Beach Village at The Del, and Shore House at The Del levy a $50/night plus tax resort fee that includes guest internet access; unlimited indoor fitness classes and beach yoga; live streaming of Netflix, Pandora, Hulu, YouTube & Crackle; local and toll-free calls. It includes access to discounted tickets, but I have the same (or better) here.
The resort fee also includes $15 per night, which goes to a historic preservation fund, customary of historic hotels, to assist with future restorations of historic features.
Where is breakfast served?
The best breakfast at Hotel del Coronado is served at the Veranda restaurant. Seasonally, breakfast is also served at Beach + Taco Shack. You can also grab breakfast to-go at the ENO Marketplace.
Main Resort guests receive free daily breakfast for up to two people to use at Veranda. Shore House Virtuoso guests enjoy a complimentary breakfast at Shore House Bistro. The value is $52 per person per day plus taxes, but not gratuity. Beach Village guests enjoy breakfast at Ocean Club.
What are the best restaurants within walking distance?
Hotel del Coronado guests are within walking distance of many of the best Coronado restaurants. We quite like Bluewater Boathouse for a seafood dinner and view. Little Frenchi is also popular.
Clayton’s Coffee Shop is a local institution serving diner favorites and offering a take-out window for delicious burritos. If you want a good happy hour fried fish taco, head to Brigantine. The list goes on.
How much is Hotel del Coronado parking?
Valet parking is $79/night for overnight guests, and self-parking is $59/night for overnight guests.
Self-parking or valet parking for day guests: $49 for the first 2 hours (receive a $10 discount with any purchase) and $17 each additional hour. The daily maximum is $100
Where can I find free parking?
Please plan to pay for parking. There is some limited street parking on Ocean Boulevard behind the hotel, but it is difficult to secure, especially during peak season. Many residential streets are permit-only, reserved for residents. There are some paid parking lots with overnight privileges nearby that you can check on apps like SpotHero.
What do I pay upfront with a Beach Village, Shore House, or Hotel del Coronado booking?
A one-night deposit is required at the time of booking for rooms in The Victorian, The Views, and The Cabanas. This deposit is refundable should you cancel no later than three days before check-in (seven days during peak dates).
At Beach Village at The Del and Shore House at The Del, a two-night deposit is taken at the time of booking and is refundable should you cancel no later than 21 days before check-in (30 days during peak dates). The balance of your stay will be paid at check-out.
A debit/credit card will be authorized at check-in for the full amount due and estimated incidental charges of $150 per day.
What time can I check in?
Check-in is at 4 p.m. Let the hotel know your expected arrival time through me or the Hilton app (which allows you to check in the day prior). Virtuoso guests are entitled to early check-in, subject to availability, but don’t plan on it during peak season. If you’ve requested specific room parameters, that further limits the chances. If your room isn’t ready, drop your bags with the bellman and enjoy the resort.
What time is check-out?
Guests need to check out by 11 a.m. Virtuoso and Hilton for Luxury guests are entitled to a late check-out, subject to availability.
It is unusual for the hotel to extend a late check-out by more than an hour or two past 11 a.m. — if they can even do so. Again, don’t plan on a late check-out during peak season, especially.
Should I choose a room through the Hilton app?
If you are a Virtuoso guest of mine, do not choose a room through the Hilton app. I work with guest relations, and they select the best room for you based on your parameters.
If you are not a Virtuoso guest, you may want to select the room on the Hilton app (which you can do the day before check-in). I often get asked what the best ones are. It’s a hard question to answer because it depends on your preferences. I would use the map to choose a room with reference to where the various amenities, parking lots, gardens, and panoramic views (beach and ocean) are on the property.
Is Hotel del Coronado open to the public?
Yes, you may enjoy Hotel del Coronado on a day-use basis. This means that day guests can shop and dine at the resort. They may also pass through to walk on the boardwalk or to use the beach, even Del Beach rentals.
Day guests will not have access to pools except for the spa pool if booking a spa treatment. Whether you’re a day or overnight guest, visiting Hotel del Coronado is on my list of top things to do in Coronado.
If you are not an overnight guest, you can buy day passes to the Main Pool through ResortPass.
Is the AAA discount better?
The AAA rate at Hotel del Coronado is usually 10% off of Hilton’s Best Flexible Rate. You can book it through Hilton, by selecting AAA in the Special Rate section of the booking engine.
The rate may be lower than Virtuoso, but it will not usually be better on an all-in basis. The AAA rate is not combinable with Virtuoso amenities, so you will not receive the $100 resort credit, $45/day daily breakfast credit for up to two adults, or a possible room upgrade. The same applies to the AARP, military, and other special rates offered by Hilton.
Why are there bad Hotel del Coronado reviews?
I get this question all the time. The short answer is expectation mismatch. This is a four-star resort that can cost more than many five-star hotels, and people who go in expecting five-star service get frustrated.
Many older negative reviews also stem from the renovation period, which is now complete. Go in with the right expectations, choose your room wisely, and you’ll have a great time.
Can Hilton Diamond benefits be combined with Virtuoso?
It is still more beneficial for Hilton Diamond members to book a stay at Hotel del Coronado through Virtuoso or Hilton for Luxury. If you are a Hilton Diamond member (or any level of Hilton Honors member), you will earn points with a Virtuoso booking.
You will not receive the Hilton Diamond or Hilton Gold daily food and beverage credit (which at the time of this writing is $20/day) as a Virtuoso guest. Remember, with Virtuoso, you receive daily breakfast for two people (valued at $45+ per person per day) and a one-time $100 food and beverage credit.
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